DECATUR, Ala. — Former Russellville High School coach John Ritter was officially introduced as the new head football coach at Decatur High School on Tuesday.
Here's the press release:
Decatur City Schools is excited to announce the hiring of John Ritter to lead the football program at Decatur High School.
Ritter graduated from The University of Alabama in 2008, earning a bachelor's degree in Social Sciences and a master's degree in Instructional Leadership from West Alabama in 2018. He lettered in three sports in high school and played quarterback at the University of North Alabama from 2003 to 2004.
Ritter brings a wealth of coaching experience to his new role. Most recently, he served as the head coach at Russellville High School, leading the Golden Tigers for six successful playoff appearances and finishing as the Region Champion for the last four consecutive years. His coaching journey also includes positions at Muscle Shoals High School and Deshler High School, along with head coaching toles at Red Bay and West Morgan High School, where the Rebels earned a 3A Region 8 Championship.
In his 11 years as head coach, Ritter has compiled an outstanding overall record of 85-42. His teams have excelled in regional play with a remarkable 57-16 record and have clinched five regional championships. Recognized for his coaching ability, Ritter has been honored with the "Coach of the Year" award seven times by prestigious organizations such as the Alabama Sports Writers, Decatur Daily, and other regional associations.
Off the field, Coach Ritter is a devoted family man. He and his wife Lauren, a former music teacher at Russellville Elementary School, are proud parents to two children, 9-year-old Lillian and 5-year-old Lincoln.